Hepatitis E

Hepatitis E, which is known to be a water born disease, was discovered in 1990.

Hepatitis E [Consultant Gynaecologist]

Incubation period

Usually two to nine weeks.

Age group

It mainly affects young adults, between 15 to 40 years.

Transmission

Hepatitis E thrives in hot climes where water or food is contaminated by faeces containing the virus.

Symptoms

Acute viral hepatitis E is usually a self-limiting disease, lasting for a period of several weeks, which is followed by recovery. In some cases, it becomes a severe form, particularly in pregnant women. The infection may induce abortion, intra-uterine foetal death and high perinatal morbidity and mortality.

Prevention measures

There is no specific treatment for hepatitis E, it can only be prevented.

Ensure safe drinking water to the community and adequate sewage disposal.

Make sure that people who handle food, especially in public eating joints, should take care of personal hygiene.